Face and Murphy a potent combination

Face The Problem gets the services of a highly talented Michael Murphy in the 4.25 at Doncaster and rates the best bet on the card at 12/1.

The gelding was a useful juvenile when trained by Barry Hills, winning three times.

His last success saw him stroll home by 6 lengths in a handicap at Thirsk off a mark of 89, after which he was rated 106 and pitched into Listed/Group company which he found too hot.

The son of Johannesburg then made a promising reapperance last season when finishing a 3 1/4 length third of 9 to Iver Bridge Lad at Nottingham off 101 before putting in three disappointing efforts.

However he did go on to run a fair race when fourth of 12 to Joe Packet at Windsor and put up a really solid effort on his final start when a 1/2 length third of 20 to Steps over today’s course and distance off a mark of 88.

That form looks solid in the context of this contest, and he now makes his debut for Pat Morris off just 2lb higher.

He also has Murphy taking another 7lb of his back, and the young rider is amazing value for his claim.

He has done nothing but impress me this season, and he a a major asset to have on your side in handicaps to take off that bit of extra weight.

Although the selection is making a belated seasonal debut here, he did run well after a long lay-off first time up last year and I think he is capable of playing a major role in this off what looks a handy mark.